Dear Friend,

Leaving home was the hardest part. I spent 2 months in prison in Eritrea after being falsely accused. When I got out of prison, I knew I had to leave so I could be safe.

I don’t have the words to describe how hard it was to leave my home. You don’t appreciate how special a normal life is until you don’t have it anymore. As a refugee, I woke up every day and didn’t know what my future held. 

When I learned I was going to the U.S., I was so excited and hopeful. It’s hard to restart your entire life in a new place and I couldn’t have done it without USCRI. The staff gave me a sense of direction and provided orientation and assistance. My case manager was wonderful - she helped me find work and adjust to living in the U.S.

Today, I’ve achieved the American dream. I own my home, I married an amazing American man, I have a job I love, and I’m really happy. I’m working as a resettlement coordinator for USCRI now, welcoming other refugees to North Carolina just like I was welcomed 10 years ago.

I hope you will consider donating to USCRI to help refugees like me build a new life of safety and opportunity. Thank you.

With gratitude,